Walgett Shire Council has condemned the shocking incident that occurred yesterday afternoon (Saturday 4 October) at the Walgett Swimming Pool, where a female patron attending the pool with her children was held up at knife point and had her car stolen in front of children, parents and staff enjoying the long weekend.A 17-year-old boy is now in custody and facing multiple charges over the incident which unfolded in full view of families and Council staff, many of whom were left deeply shaken. Walgett council has weighed in, releasing a statement calling for immediate intervention from relevant authorities."A mother simply enjoying a swim at a public pool should never be threatened with a knife in front of her own children," the Council release said."Council staff and patrons who witnessed the event have been left traumatised, and support is being offered to all affected."Police were called to the swimming pool carpark on Montkeila Road, Walgett, at about 4.45pm yesterday following reports an armed teenager had allegedly stolen a vehicle.Officers attached to Central North Police District were told a 35-year-old woman and her two children – aged two and four – were threatened by a 17-year-old boy who was armed with a machete.The boy allegedly demanded keys to the woman’s car, before he left the scene in the vehicle.A short time later, police saw the vehicle travelling south on the Castlereagh Highway towards Coonamble.Police attempted to stop the vehicle and when the driver allegedly ignored the direction, a pursuit was initiated.The pursuit continued for about 100km before police successfully deployed road spikes on the Castlereagh Highway about 20km north of Coonamble.Walgett pool and carpark. IMAGE: Western Plains AppThe 17-year-old boy was arrested and taken to Walgett Police Station, where he was charged with:Robbery armed with offensive weaponAggravated assault with intent to take/drive motor vehicle – armed with weaponPolice pursuit – not stop – drive at speedHinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty, andUnlicensed for Class, Class C, R, LR or MR.He was refused bail to appear before a Children’s Court today (Sunday 5 October 2025).As a result of the incident, the pool was closed early to allow police investigations and staff debriefing. "Council hopes to reopen the facility tomorrow, noting that the behaviour of a few should not take away the enjoyment of the many," a council spokesperson said.Walgett mayor Jasen Ramien. [IMAGE: WSC]This incident follows a concerning rise in criminal activity in Walgett in recent weeks. Mayor Jasen Ramien said that this latest event marks a serious escalation that cannot continue unchecked.“Enough is enough. This week alone we have seen two separate home invasions, a car stolen which ended in a police pursuit and the vehicle being burnt out, two attempted break-ins, and now this incident today,” Mayor Ramien said.“One of the incidents occurred in a Council-owned house. "Instead of investing in community projects, we have been forced to spend tens of thousands of dollars on additional security measures for Council properties. "It is time the State Government and the court system got serious about the problems we are facing.”Mayor Ramien said the people of Walgett have proven their resilience before.“A few months ago we saw a similar spike in crime, and it was the community that came together to take a stand. "That same spirit will be needed again, but we cannot do it alone,” he said.Walgett council General Manager and criminologist, Andrew Brown. [IMAGE: WSC]Council’s General Manager, Andrew Brown, a Lecturer in Criminology at the University of New England, said that while Council continues to play an active role in community safety, sustainable change requires proper investment in diversionary programs and crime prevention.“Council is a willing partner in crime prevention, but we cannot do it alone. "We need proper funding for proper diversionary programs and the development of a comprehensive crime prevention strategy,” Mr Brown said.“Diversionary programs that engage young people in education, sport and employment opportunities are proven to reduce offending, but they require consistent and coordinated funding. "Short-term or ad hoc projects will not deliver the outcomes our community deserves.”Mr Brown said the Walgett community is uniquely positioned to lead a proactive approach to rural crime prevention.“We have, right on our doorstep, the nation’s only research centre dedicated to rural crime at the University of New England. "We need to bring together researchers, police, the courts and most importantly, the community. "With genuine collaboration and appropriate investment, we can make a real difference, but we need the funding to make it happen.”In relation to the incident at the pool, Mayor Ramien reiterated that the safety of staff and patrons remains Council’s highest priority.“If we cannot ensure a safe environment for our staff, we will be forced to close the pool. "We know how important this facility is to the community, but safety must always come first,” he said.Mayor Ramien said it is now time for senior decision-makers to come to Walgett and hear directly from the community.“I am formally inviting Premier Chris Minns, Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley, and newly appointed NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon to visit Walgett and have a real conversation with us about real solutions. "We need their support and leadership on the ground, not just words from afar,” Mayor Ramien said.Council will now write to the relevant State and Federal Ministers and members seeking immediate intervention and a coordinated response to community safety across Walgett Shire.“Enough talk, it is now time for action,” Mayor Ramien said.

Outback Rowing is making a splash in Nyngan with the formation of its own local club under the guidance of Club Captain Jim McLaughlin.Following the acquisition of a quad, double and single boat, purchased from Kinross Wolaroi School and delivered by Murray Stewart and his daughter Georgie from Outback Rowing in Brisbane, club members are hitting the banks of the Bogan River ready to have a row.The Club's formation comes about after an initiative entitled ‘The Outback Rowing program’ which invited country communities to take possession of an eight boat and learn to row - with the aim of competing in the Australian Outback Rowing Regatta held in Barcaldine, Queensland on the October long weekend.There are already boats based in Cunnamulla, Chinchilla, Bourke, Moree and various other outback communities and Outback Rowing representative Dr Toby Ford says he is hoping small communities with access to a river will take part.Australian Outback Rowing Regatta - crews lined up for the start - Image Abigail McLaughlin.“Our overarching vision is to improve the wellbeing of rural Australians by encouraging them to participate in organised sport. This takes a multipronged approach with five overlapping actions,” Dr Ford said.“First, we founded the regatta series in 2021, with two unique racing styles - a sprint and head racing held over two consecutive days in the two rivalrous communities of Longreach and Barcaldine in western Queensland.“The regatta itself is growing in numbers, with an increase in boats coming to compete year on year. We have clubs bringing their nominated crews, alumni crews reuniting for the event and of course, our orphans who are individuals wanting to come and be involved."Everyone is welcome," said Dr Ford.“Our event being held in Longreach and Barcaldine is unique, as both towns are a long way from anywhere, with competitors and friends travelling some 1,300 km from Brisbane by train, plane or automobile to get there. Last year’s Sydney crews drove 1800 km to bring their boats to the show.“We now have three great convoys, travelling to our event from across Australia, learning about our rural communities on the way, meeting the locals and participating in social rows along the way.“Our third action has been forming outback rowing clubs that sit under the ORA mantle of administration.“Last year we formed our first four rural town rowing programs in Toowoomba, Chinchilla, Cunnamulla and Longreach. Using our own heavy-duty trailer donated by the David McTaggart Foundation, we transported a bank of boats to the clubs to ensure access to quality craft.“Our Outback Crew, made up of our bush town program members went on to compete in the prestigious Head of the Yarra, proving ‘the bushies’ can compete with the best of them."Australian Outback Rowing Regatta taking place this October weekend - Image Abigail McLaughlin.Nyngan Club Captain Jim McLaughlin who previously rowed for his school and at Sydney University before returning home to the farm, has assisted with the delivery of the boats and is now looking for community members interested in having a go.“Nyngan is now looking to purchase an eight boat, which is what crews competing at Longreach and Barcaldine use,” said Mr McLaughlin.“A lot of schools and boat clubs who have rowing programs regularly upgrade their boats, so we are hoping to get our hands on one which is being retired."Until then we have a four boat as well as a single and double scull which we are using to train up those wanting to have a go.“Now that the footy season is over, we’ve had a lot of people keen to try rowing. "We’ve had all ages and abilities and it’s been a lot of fun working it out as we go."Local Crew taking to the Bogan River - Image Outback Rowing Club Nyngan.“A few rowed at school or Uni but haven’t had the opportunity since and have really enjoyed getting back into it. "They’ve been helpful in assisting beginners get started. “We’ve had some funny experiences. "One lady, who will remain un-named, got the oars stuck behind her back. "She was sitting behind me, so I didn’t see it, and she was too embarrassed to tell me it had happened," said Mr McLaughlin.While the Club has around 20 members so far, they are also looking for sponsorship to help cover the costs of purchasing boats and getting them to Nyngan with the aim of competing in next year’s regatta.“We’ve been meeting every Sunday morning at the Nyngan Riverside Tourist Park for a row, and just about every weekend we get a few new people."Some of them have really taken to it and we are all looking forward to eventually getting a crew or two together to go on a road trip to Longreach.“We didn’t feel ready to go to the regatta this year but will definitely get a crew up there in 2026. "The regatta is a lot of fun. They get crews from everywhere and it’s all about having fun on the water,” said Mr McLaughlin.“If you are interested in taking part in Outback Rowing Nyngan visit the dedicated Facebook and contact us."

A young man has died after a crash near Nymagee yesterday evening, Friday 3 October.Emergency services were called to a property on Manuka Road, Nymagee, about 97 kilometres south of Cobar, at around 9pm last night.Officers from Central North Police District attended the scene and found a 19-year-old man with critical injuries.Police were told a four-wheeler buggy had allegedly rolled, trapping the driver underneath.Family members and police performed CPR while waiting for NSW Ambulance paramedics to arrive.The man was treated by paramedics but he died at the scene.His male passenger, also aged 19, did not sustain any injuries in the crash.A crime scene was established and police commenced an investigation.A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Musical artists are counting down the days to the Vision Splendid concert, and cannot wait to see Coonamble's main street alive with action this weekend. The annual Vision Splendid concert kicks off at 6pm on Sunday 5 October, breaking up the labor day long-weekend and getting outdoors with a free and family-friendly musical night to remember. Featuring musical talents Y.O.G.A. from Peking Duk, Dear Tommie, Voice of Lele, and Mitch Tambo, the main street will be rattling with excitement and heavy bass for the live performances. Y.O.G.A. said he plans to bring the party to the paddocks with his new music and unreleased tracks. "Regional Australia is where I end up seeing what are easily the best crowds," the artist said. "The further out of the city I get the better the crowds are, so I'd say Coonamble, I'm calling it now, It's gonna be a big highlight."Originally from Tamworth, singer Dear Tommie, also shares a love for the countryside. She said she's looking forward to being out in the country with some top shelf talent behind her.Dear Tommie. [IMAGE SUPPLIED] "I'm really excited to be back and be putting on a awesome show that you probably get in the city but it's going to be just at your back door," she said. "My whole band, they're a bunch of rock stars. "My guitarist just played at the AFL Grand Final and my drummer is also a drummer for a bunch of heavyweight acts, so you will be getting a top tier standard Australian live show".The singer said she plans to mix crowd favourites with a few unreleased tracks. The soulful Voice of Lele will take the stage after Dear Tommie, who also dangled the carrot of airing some brand new music. "I'll be bringing a 30 minute set and there's a couple of songs there that I haven't released yet," she said. "I'm really looking forward to sharing those songs with everyone." Voice of Lele is new to the Coonamble scene but her husband, Mitch Tambo, who plays after her, has family from Coonamble. "He does have a connection with Coonamble," she said mysteriously. Voice of Lele hinted at a duet with Mitch Tambo for their hit song My Island Home. But Vision Splendid will be more than music to your ears. Under the festoon lights you can wander between market stalls, enjoy fresh-cooked street food and sample the drinks stations.

NRMA’s Peter Khoury has praised advanced technology which applies a protective layer of hot bitumen and aggregate that waterproofs roads against heavy rain damage while providing superior grip in all weather conditions – extending road life by up to 10 years.Mr Khoury said weather-beaten Western Plains roads and highways needed help.“The NRMA welcomes this important funding commitment to improve the safety of regional highways.“We particularly welcome the use of new technology which the NRMA has previously called for as it will build safer and more resilient roads.” The comprehensive spray sealing program, which kicked off this month will run through to June 2026, delivering smoother surfaces for the thousands of motorists who rely on these vital regional arteries."This smart investment in spray sealing prevents costly road reconstruction while delivering safer, more reliable travel for regional families," NSW Roads Minister Jenny Atchison says."These aren't just roads – they're lifelines connecting our regional communities to jobs, healthcare, education and each other."Our freight operators, farmers, tourism industries, local businesses and communities depend on these corridors every single day." NSW Roads Minister says more than 300 kilometres of western roads will be involved including Newell Highway, Castlereagh Highway, Mitchell Highway, Golden Highway and Mendooran Road, plus the Barrier and Silver City highways in works to run from September 2025 to June 2026.There will be large work on the Castlereagh Highway In March 2024 between Mendooran and Dunedoo.In February, 5.9km will be sealed between Walgett and Lightning Ridge and in May 2026 some work also will incorporate Brewarrina.Walgett mayor Jasen Ramien welcomed new work on roads in his Shire.“Any investment into our road network is welcome. "With major flooding events impacting our Shire each year and a steady increase in tourism, maintaining and improving our road network is vital. "I thank the NSW Government for their consideration and support, which is essential to keeping our communities connected and our local economy moving.”

David Bowie diehards are descending on Carinda as the town prepares for their annual tribute festival to the legendary singer this weekend. "The air, the vibe. It's electric with Bowie," Let's Dance Carinda secretary Joy Dare said. Hundreds of fans make the trip from across the country to strut the iconic ginger hair and lightning-bolt. Four music acts will take the stage on Saturday 4 October, headlined by Melbourne tribute artist Starman. At around midday on Sunday, festival-goers will pack the Carinda Hotel to reenact 1983 music video 'Let's Dance,' which Bowie partially filmed at the venue. Organisers hope to welcome around 300 people through the gates.The festival is approaching its tenth anniversary. [IMAGE: Let's Dance Carinda] "They come right from up the coast. We've had people from Adelaide, Wollongong, Victoria, Queensland," Joy said. Bowie devotees can buy tickets at the gate, with camping space at the sportsground where the festival takes place. Those looking to indulge their artsy side with have a tent to paint shoes red - a reference to a line in Let's Dance - which will hang on display at the grounds. The music is live and the atmosphere is chill, but it's not all Starman.The crowd will also groove to Narrabri's Leon Cunningham, Brewarrina's The Bre Band and The Golden Years of Bowie. Bowie died in January 2016, the same year locals launched the festival. The 2025 event comes after a storm in November last year smashed the town, severely damaging homes and businesses.  It may have dented the town, but Joy said that didn't stop the committee from pushing ahead. "Everyone's keen to keep it going," Joy said. "It'll be 10 years next year, and it's going to be bigger and better than ever."

All eyes are on hot favorites Walgett Aboriginal Connection (WAC) to see if they can pull off a third straight men's title as the Koori Knockout nears only a day away. Former NRL player turned commentator Dean Widders said WAC will have a prepared side going into the tournament, which runs from 3-6 October. He also flagged Bourke, Wellington and Wirajuri Aboriginal Rivers as strong western contenders. "WAC have built up a great group of players that really love playing for that team and they've got the quality and the preparation, and the professionalism around them," the NITV host said. "The draw last year was one of the toughest draws you'd seen a team receive for the WAC side, and they were still strong enough to overcome that." The annual Indigenous rugby league competition gathers teams from across NSW and broadcasts to hundreds of thousands of Australians.NITV host Dean Widders. [IMAGE: SBS]  It has drawn current and former NRL players like Jack Wighton (South Sydney Rabbitohs), Latrell Mitchell (Rabbitohs) and Will Kennedy (Cronulla Sharks). The lead-up to the games have also attracted speculation over which NRL players may appear, especially with potential club commitments to the grand final between Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos on 5 October.For the first time, Coonamble's 2829 Gathering will send a men's and women's side to the Knockout.The club debuted in the 2010s in the junior grades, and Dean said they could bring a few tricks up their sleeve."They can surprise some of the bigger sides that come out, but I think the win for a lot of the local teams, the little teams, is just having a presence there," he said. "It's being there and coming together to catch up with family and friends that you haven't run into for a long time."When it comes to the women, Dean ranks the Newcastle Yowies, Redfern All Blacks, Wiradjuri Aboriginal Rivers (WAR) as his top four contenders. He said women had exhibition games in the early 2000s before they became part of the tournament late that decade. It has been growing ever since. "We've got passion for rugby league. It's our modern day corroboree," Dean said. "It showcases a lot of our modern day culture and our values as a as a people. "I think there's that real strong connection with rugby league and what it means and what it represents in all our communities."The men will be drawn on Thursday evening 2 October.

The state's water minister says she is considering no further changes to water metering rules despite irrigators and environmentalists calling for the laws to be rewritten. The Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (CEWH) paused environmental water releases in mid-August following legal advice that they may not be compliant with the rules. In response, the NSW Parliament passed an amendment in September which Minister Rose Jackson said has given legal clarity for people using water for the environment. "The NSW Government’s water rules are designed to support environmental watering events which support precious aquatic ecosystems across the state," Minister Jackson said. "It’s important we ensure strong accountability and transparency, and the recent amendments were developed with these challenges in mind.   "The amendment provides legal clarity for environmental water holders, river operators and approval holders and we are not considering any further legislative changes at this stage." The Namoi River at Walgett. [River McCrossen] Following the advice to the Water Holder, a new interpretation of non-urban metering rules requires environmental water to be metered. Minister Jackson said the amendment doesn't change that. She also said that the government is working "as quickly as possible" to install water measurement equipment, including meters, at sites used for environmental watering. Her office also confirmed that exceptions have been granted to two environmental watering sites where metering is not possible, although they didn't say where. The August pause drew concern from conservationists including the Nature Conservation Council, who said environmental water legislation is "teetering on amendment after amendment." NSW Irrigators Council CEO Madeleine Hartley, who has worked in water law and policy, also said that the law should be simplified. "We need proper consultation and not reactive regulations. We need to be part of the conversation," she said. "The fact that it seems that government agencies can't work out how to follow these complex laws is concerning when irrigators are made to follow them." 

A paramedic has been praised for staying with a hiker who had been injured in an isolated area of Warrumbungle National Park.Around 4.30 pm on Wednesday 1 October, a Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by the NSW Ambulance Aeromedical Control Centre to a hiker who had suffered a leg injury on a remote track in the Warrumbungle National Park, west of Coonabarabran.The NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic from the helicopter’s critical care medical team was winched into the scene and treated a patient in their 50s for an ankle injury. ''Following further assessment, the team decided that the paramedic would remain with the patient overnight, with extraction planned for the following morning," an Ambulance NSW spokesperson said. A Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by the NSW Ambulance Aeromedical Control Centre to return to the scene and arrived around 7.30 am on Thursday 2 October.The patient received further treatment and was stabilised before being winched into the aircraft and airlifted to Dubbo Base Hospital.

Police are calling for help as they investigate the discovery of a body found in a car in the Brewarrina area. A police spokesperson said emergency services were called to the Kamilaroi Highway at about 5:15am on Sunday 28 September. They said the SUV was found alight and that a body was discovered inside once Fire and Rescue crew extinguished the blaze. The remains are yet to be formally identified, and Central North Police District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Andrew Barnes said the death is being treated as suspicious. “While we are awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination, my detectives have been provided with information which indicates a possible identity of the deceased," he said. “Based on that information, we do not believe there is any evidence that members of the local community are at risk; however, we are appealing to the public to come forward if they have information which could be relevant to this investigation. “We hope to confirm the identity of the deceased as well as the cause of death this week. This information is vital to the ongoing investigation. “I can confirm detectives have spoken with a number of people in the local area, and hope anyone with information – or dashcam vision – of the vehicle, or the person driving that vehicle before it was found alight on Sunday, to come forward." He said the was the vehicle is a green 1996 Nissan Pathfinder station wagon with NSW registration CR21T, which is unregistered. Anyone with information can contact Bourke Police Station of Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

New NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has outlined his priorities and has talked about issues deeply affecting the Western Plains.Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM was formally appointed as the 24th NSW Police Force Commissioner, following a ceremony at Balmain Police Station yesterday, Wednesday 1 October.‘’Working with my leadership team my priorities from day one include Organised Crime, Domestic Violence, Regional Youth Crime, Roads and Safety," he said.The new Commissioner also flagged his approach to the expanding illegal vape and tobacco trade.‘’Community is focus, engaging and being pro-active," the new Commissioner said.“I can’t wait to get to work, tackling key priority areas: organised crime, community safety in our regions, supporting victims of domestic and family violence, and ensuring there is social cohesion within the community." The ceremony was conducted in the presence of Her Excellency, The Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC and Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, The Honourable Yasmin Catley MP, as well as a number of other dignitaries and senior officers. Commissioner Lanyon started his career at Glebe on 27 March 1987, and brings more than 37 years of policing experience to the role. He has held a range of senior operational leadership roles, including leading the State Crime Command and serving as Deputy Commissioner since January 2019.  From April 2024, Commissioner Lanyon worked as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Reconstruction Authority, guiding the state’s natural disaster management efforts.He says the work with the Reconstruction Authority gave him a good sense about the problems facing small communities and that his years of public service kept him in touch with the challenges facing the community and modern policing. “It’s an honour to be appointed as the next Commissioner of the NSW Police Force. This is one of the greatest responsibilities in public service,” Commissioner Lanyon said. “I take on this role with humility and a deep sense of duty. “And I want to ensure that every police officer feels united and part of one team, motivated by the purpose and commitment to serve the community of NSW.”Commissioner Lanyon talked about the illegal tobacco and vape problem. “This a health issue and Health have the lead in the first instance but we are working with them to enforce the law," he said.The Commissioner says sniffer dogs will continue in strip searches as a tool to snare those with drugs, knifes and weapons, Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley has congratulated Commissioner Lanyon on his appointment. “Commissioner Lanyon has proven himself with almost four decades of exceptional service across frontline and leadership roles. “He is ready to hit the ground running and has the experience and vision to lead the NSW Police Force into a bright, new era. “Congratulations Commissioner. I look forward to working together."

Over 1200 spectators drove on dirt road to watch jockeys battle it out for a $49,000 prize pool at Come By Chance's annual picnic races. Racegoers came from Sydney, the Central Coast and Queensland to make the all-day spectacle, where Gunnedah trainer and former NRL player Gavin Groth struck a win with seven-year-old Accrue in a headline ten-horse dash. Come By Chance Picnic Race Club president Hugh Johnston said the track was in good nick ahead of the day. "The horses rode well," he said. "The children were entertained and easy to find. They felt safe." Spectators had plenty to keep them occupied between a six-race meeting, where local temperatures reached into the low 30s.PHOTOThe winner and runners up in in the Best Dressed Classic Lady: Gai Ritchardson (Walgett), Bronie Colless (Come By Chance), Emma Wager-Welsh (Warren), winner Renee Jensen (Walgett), Ronda Bradley (Walgett) and Lisa Jego (Walgett). [IMAGE: River McCrossen] Burren Junction's Jackson Howell impressed judges Ausling and Cobus Swart to be crowed Best Dressed Gent in the fashion on the field. Walgett's Renne Jensen sported a white dress decorated in flowers to win the Best Classic Dressed Lady. Bella Colwell, also from Walgett, took Best Classic Dressed Lady in an all-black outfit. The day didn't end with the final horse race, with spectators taking their own shot at glory in the bare foot runs. The bar area occupied into the evening, while face painting and a jumping castle supplied a much-needed break for parents to kick back. The club also brought back dog jumping from 2023, where seven good boys were auctioned at a calcutta.Video taken of the fireworks after the races. [IMAGES: River McCrossen] A crowd of at least 100 people stayed to watch them clear heights of over 1.5 meters before the animal events gave way to fireworks and live music well into the evening.

Food trucks, market stalls, buskers and mobile fitness trainers will soon find it easier to work across council lines, with the NSW Government introducing a Mutual Recognition Scheme that lets councils recognise each other’s approvals for mobile businesses.Under the change, a trader who already holds approval to operate in one local government area can request recognition of that approval in other LGAs, instead of lodging fresh applications and paying new fees each time.Councils can still set local conditions such as hours, noise and waste requirements, and retain discretion not to recognise an approval, but the state is urging take-up to reduce duplication and help operators respond to demand where it exists.“Mobile businesses should be mobile, not stuck in unnecessary red tape that stops them moving across imaginary lines,” Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said.“This is another classic example of unnecessary rules getting in the way of fun and economic activity."Mutual Recognition is about allowing them to do that without burying them in admin.”He added that councils are key partners in the state’s vibrancy agenda, and the reform also eases their paperwork burden.Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig said the scheme was designed with councils to be flexible and practical.“We should be doing what we can to encourage [activation of public spaces] and that’s why the government has introduced the Mutual Recognition Scheme,” he said.“For mobile businesses it means fewer hoops to jump through with council approvals."For councils, it means less paperwork with the added benefit of making it easier to run events and activate public spaces."The scheme has been designed in close consultation with councils to be flexible and adaptive to local needs.”Dubbo Street Food Cart at a Coonamble street festival earlier this year.For on-the-ground operators, the impact will vary depending on the work they do.Jodi Cormie, owner-operator of Lil’ Coffee Cart in Coonabarabran, said most of her business is private bookings rather than trading on public land, so council approvals haven’t been central to her model.“I mostly do private events and I also pay a site fee,” she said.“I’m on a very small scale.”Event organisers, she added, typically look for insurance and food-safety credentials.“As long as you’ve got your insurance and correct food-safety certificates, things are pretty straight forward,” she said.The government says the Mutual Recognition Scheme responds to recent recommendations from the NSW Productivity and Equality Commissioner to strip out duplicated processes that slow the 24-hour economy.It also builds on a suite of “vibrancy” measures already underway, including support for Special Entertainment Precincts, ending single serial noise complaints, extending trading hours for venues hosting live entertainment, reducing red tape around outdoor spaces, scrapping the five kilometre club sign-in rule and rolling out $14.9 million in Uptown Grants to support entertainment hubs.The “five-kilometre club sign-in rule” was a provision under the Registered Clubs Act that stopped people who lived within five kilometres of a registered club from signing in as temporary members.Locals generally had to join the club (or enter under limited exceptions like being a guest at a function), while people living outside the five kilometre radius could sign in as temporary members.The NSW Government scrapped the rule in September 2024 so locals can now sign in like anyone else, part of wider “vibrancy” reformsWhat changes for traders?If you hold a current approval to trade on public land in one council area, you’ll be able to apply to have it recognised in another, rather than starting over.You may still need to meet site-specific conditions, but your core paperwork should only be submitted once.Operators who primarily work on private land or events, like Lil’ Coffee Cart, may notice less day-to-day change, but councils and event organisers assembling line-ups across multiple locations could find it faster and simpler to bring in a diverse mix of vendors.The state will publish guidance for councils and businesses outlining how recognition requests will be processed and what evidence is required.

Cult 1982 Australian film, Running on Empty, starring Terry Serio, Deborah Conway and Max Cullen was celebrated in Cobar at its biennial Running on Empty Festival last weekend.The popular event again delivered roaring engines, and a shot in the arm for the local economy, but over the history of the event, it has delivered so much more.Behind the spectacle is a story of purpose. Festival committee member John De Bruin says the event began as a love letter to the film and the roads around Cobar where parts were shot but quickly became a fundraiser with a mission. “We announced in 2018 that we would raise money to build a war memorial in Cobar,” he said.“There was nowhere that the names of all the people who went to war were in one single spot.”That promise was kept. “We made enough money out of the 2022 event to build that war memorial,” Mr De Bruin said. “By 2024 the Cobar War Memorial was in place. She weighs 7.2 tonne, and at that time had 953 names on it, which went up to the time of the Korean War.” The monument now lists 961 names and stands as a permanent roll of honour created by community hands.“All the crane time was donated by a local crane company," Mr De Bruin said. "The electrical work was donated and so on." It was a real community effort, and we are very proud of it.”The much loved Cobar War Memorial came about with help from funds raised at the Running on Empty event.Car buff and Member for Barwon Roy Butler called it “one festival that is close to my heart.”The centrepiece at the latest Running on Empty Festival was Saturday’s Show ’n’ Shine. “This was a gathering of cars from all around the country, to be displayed in all their glory,” Mr Butler said. “The cars ranged from some vintage masterpieces through to more recent classics.”He was invited to select a Judge’s Choice and chose a 1968 HK Holden wagon owned by local Luke Griffiths. “What I liked about the car was that it had some modern modifications but preserved the patina and the original bodywork," he said."Even better, Luke also still drives the car every day."Mr Butler joined a packed crowd at the Cobar Bowling & Golf Club for an opening-night screening with special guest’s director John Clark and actor Terry Serio. “When the film came to an end, the audience was asked if they wanted to watch it again and the answer was a resounding yes,” Mr Butler said.This year’s celebration balanced reverence with revelry and demand saw the festival stretch to five days. “We had just short of 100 cars here from all over Australia, as far north as Brisbane and as far south as Melbourne,” Mr De Bruin said. “We had 170 people for the movie on Friday night, a welcome night on Thursday with about 160 at the Golf Club and 150 for dinner on Saturday.“We were supposed to run Thursday, Friday, Saturday. "We added Wednesday, and on Sunday we took people out for lunch, so it became a five-day event."I would say an extra four or five hundred extra people were in town and I haven’t found one business that didn’t benefit."The Dustbowl Fuel Burners car club has now “taken the reins” of organising the Running on Empty Festival with Mr De Bruin and Emily Miller helping coordinate events. “2025 is all about having the future Running on Empty events be self-sufficient, rather than depending on government funding," Mr De Bruin said. "We think we’ve raised enough money this year, and with a couple more fundraisers we’ll have enough to run 2027.”Member for Barwon, Roy Butler, "put his money where his mouth is" by not only publicly supporting the Running on Empty Festival at Cobar,but also taking part.Mr Butler didn’t just turn up, he took part. “Roy actually put a car into the event,” Mr De Bruin said. “He wasn’t just here as a spectator and was very generous with auction items with us on Saturday night.” For the MP, the weekend’s value is civic as well as sentimental. “The value of events like this cannot be overstated," Mr Butler said."They bring the community together as well as drawing in people from out of town who spend money at the pubs, cafes and shops, boosting the local economy. "Congratulations to John De Bruin and his team from Dustbowl Fuel Burners for such a successful event."I look forward to many more to come.”That hope is widely shared. “Everybody is positive about it, they want to come back for 2027, and we are already taking about the 50th anniversary of the film in 2032.” Mr De Bruin said. “We don’t want this event to get enormous."We want it manageable with a family-friendly atmosphere."Our demographics are people who’ve spent thousands on their cars; they want somewhere to show them off, and to cruise.”

The historic Gilgandra Library has entered a new chapter with the official opening of the Gilgandra Library Hub in the heart of town.Originally housed in the Gilgandra War Memorial Literary Institute since 1923, the library has now relocated to a purpose-built, modern facility on Miller Street in a $6.41 million project that combines heritage with a vision for the future.The official opening was attended by a wide cross-section of dignitaries and community members.Among those welcomed were Senator Deborah O’Neill, Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey, Library Council Member Jane Garling and Cameron Morley from the State Library of NSW, David Prout and his family in honour of the late Glenys Prout, principal architect Ashley Dunn of Dunn & Hillam, and John Melville, CEO of North Constructions.They were joined by councillors, library staff and volunteers, library members, local businesses and residents who came together to celebrate the milestone.Gilgandra Shire Mayor, Doug Batten told the large crowd gathered at the opening that the hub “has been a flagship project for Gilgandra, delivering on Council's core commitment to advance the Gilgandra Activation blueprint.”He said the idea came about after the closure of the Target store in 2019, which left a void in the main street. “For our community, already in the midst of attacking drought, news of the closure brought uncertainty and anxiety about its impact on our rural residence and our overall economic vitality,” he said.“Council saw the opportunity to purchase the building as a way to revitalise the CBD and assist local businesses through these critical drought-impacted times.”Mayor Doug Batten with Jane Garling, Senator Deborah O'Neill and Cameron Morley.From temporary pop-ups in the “What Was Target Collective” to construction commencing in March 2022, the journey has been long and not without obstacles.“Throughout the construction period, unforeseen external factors, including COVID and the supply of labour materials, contributed to some lengthy delays,” Cr Batten said.“Some six years following its purchase, I am extremely proud to say that Council has delivered a space of connection, play, and learning.”The Hub now houses over 20,000 books, a business incubator, multipurpose and bookable rooms, tech and sound spaces, and a modernised plaza.Since reopening in March 2025, it has attracted 225 new members, hosted 124 activities, and recorded more than 200 bookings of its new facilities.Also in attendance, Senator Deborah O’Neill reflected on her own formative experiences in libraries.“The only time in my life I had quietness was when I went to the library,” she said.“It was all about the books and about the material, but what we see here is everything old has to be renewed.”She praised Gilgandra’s determination to keep its historic Art Deco building alive.“The passion of your community, your determination not to lose these beautiful buildings, and your perseverance through COVID is to be celebrated," she said."Today is a day to celebrate every single one of you who have been part of that process.”Librarian Liz McCutcheon talks about the legacy of her predecessor Glenys Prout.Jane Garling, representing the State Library of NSW, who contributed more than half a million dollars to the project, congratulated council and staff for their persistence.“This beautiful space now takes its place with pride amongst the 361 libraries around the state,” she said.Carmen Anderson, Warren Shire Library with architect Lee Hillam.For David Neeve, Gilgandra Shire Council’s General Manager, it was also the time to acknowledge librarian Liz McCutcheon, who has led services since 2007. “Liz has an extraordinary passion for library services, which shines through in the programs delivered here,” he said.“She was a quiet achiever in this project, building key relationships with funding bodies."It is a very special thank you and congratulations for all your efforts.”Robyn Howard and Margot Piggott at the opening event.Liz McCutcheon herself spoke movingly about Glenys Prout, Gilgandra’s former librarian from 1980 until her passing in 2007.The new multipurpose room has been named in her honour.“Glenys introduced our first story time program and toy collection, inspiring generations of children,” Ms McCutcheon said.“She guided us through the transition from card catalogues to a computerised system, and she began planning for a new library as early as 2006."The building we are opening today fulfils the vision she set in motion.”She said naming the new multipurpose space the Glenys Prout Room was a fitting tribute.“Already it has hosted over 120 events, truly reflecting what Glenys believed in - the power of community, learning, and connection,” Ms McCutcheon said.

Walgett mayor Jasen Ramien has acknowledged the work done in his community and NSW Government action to address community concerns about water security in Western NSW, by ensuring new fishway designs have no impact on local weir heights. The mayor said for Walgett Shire, the stakes were high."Council made it clear from the outset that any reduction to the existing weir pool was unacceptable, working relentlessly to ensure the voices of Walgett residents were heard loud and clear."“From the very beginning, Council stood firm,” said Mayor Ramien.“We engaged constructively, we pushed back when needed, and we never lost sight of our community’s right to secure, reliable water." Mayor Ramien also acknowledged the collective effort behind the win, with the fight involving multiple communities, from Collarenebri to Tilpa.“This result reflects the strength of regional collaboration."I want to thank Bourke Mayor Lachlan Ford and his team for their tireless advocacy, Roy Butler MP and his team for standing with us, and most of all, the people of Walgett Shire."Your unity and determination made this possible.”The Mayor says everyone has worked together to achieve the result.“This is a great outcome that will see everyone win. This issue had real consequences for our communities and our region, and we are pleased to see a solution that secures both fish passage and our water future.”Walgett Shire Council will continue to work closely with the NSW Government, neighbouring councils, and the community to ensure that water security and environmental health remain a priority for the region. Barwon MP Roy Butler said it’s a victory for commonsense.“I’d like to thank Minister Rose Jackson and Federal Minister Murray Watt for hearing the concerns of these communities.“It’s still fresh in our minds how devastating the drought in 2018 was and it’s understandable these communities were opposed to any reduction in the capacity of the weir pool.“This new proposal allows for a very important passage of fish but also acknowledges community concerns about water security.”Minister for Water Rose Jackson said the decision is "a great example of why getting boots on the ground and taking time to have conversations directly with locals is a critical part of the decision-making process."“I have attended dozens of meetings with stakeholders to listen and understand the different perspectives," she said."While residents understand the need to improve native fish movement, they have been abundantly clear that it cannot be at the expense of their town water storage."It’s great that we’ve been able to find a potential compromise that suits all parties without reducing the weir height at all and still delivering the fish passage we need.“While we’ll still need to do the regular checks and balances, we believe we’ve found the answer and we’re looking forward to returning to the community in the coming weeks with this design.” Local opponent of previous weir designs Louth's Gary Mooring says he will wait to see new designs.''It's positive the dialogue was good at the end with the community, heights will be maintained so we're pleased,'' he told the Western Plains App.The $56.8 million Fish Passage: Reconnecting the Northern Basin Project aims to improve native fish migration and boost river health, supporting a 70 gigalitre reduction in water recovery targets in the Northern Basin under the Basin Plan.The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has been working closely with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development – Fisheries to finalise a new design for the fishways.The new design includes a small capping sill across part of the weir crests that will allow the fishways to operate effectively and maintain the current full supply level.The work will install fishways and will fix the leaks in existing weirs to bring water loss down.This solution enables native fish to migrate and breed, while also safeguarding local water supplies and meeting the needs of local communities.While the intention is now clear, technical investigations will be undertaken to confirm the revised approach and drop-in community sessions to discuss the updated designs will be held in late October 2025, with exact dates and details to be confirmed soon at this website.

The Volunteer Board of community owned Cooinda Aged Care Facility at Coonababran say they will now be able to get on with a major extension, saying new money received from a Federal Government grant is pleasing.The organisation were among three in western NSW to be awarded millions in funding for facility improvements.Chief Executive Leanne Redfern says Cooinda is working to with builders to get things happening."We are going to refurbish Cooinda Lodge, an unused building and outfit it for 14 beds with overhead lifters with state of art features, as a new wing of the residential home," she said.The $4.3million Federal Government funding will help make valuable additions to the Aged Care Facility.‘’It's shovel ready and DA approved so we hope to have this complete by end of the next year.’’The facility opened in 1977 and staff has grown to 140 , the CEO says her staff live and work in the community and love and care for its residents."We are the largest employer in the town and will continue to be a major contributor to our town economically," Mrs Redfern said.Cooinda serves the bigger community of the Warrumbungle Shire and wider areas but also has residents from Dubbo.Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said a total of $56,490,721 in funding had been allocated to the facilities through Round 3 of the federal Aged Care Capital Assistance Program (ACCAP).“I’m particularly pleased that the largest single grant that has ever been awarded through the program will go to the new 94-bed residential care home in Broken Hill,” Mr Chaffey said. “I’m also delighted that the Lillian Brady Village Hostel in Cobar has been awarded just over $1.5 million, and the Cooinda Aged Care facility in Coonabarabran has been awarded $4.3 million.“We have an ageing population, and it is so important to make sure that the older people who have already contributed so much to our communities have quality care.”Cobar’s Lilliane Brady Village Hostel is council owned and the funding is a major boost for its 43 residents. "New bathrooms for 15 of its 43 residents will bring it up to modern standard," Council GM Peter Vlatko said.‘’This project will take time with a builder to do lots of work. "So it will take time moving residents to accommodate the new bathrooms but they will be pleased when work is done,'' he said.The Aged Care Capital Assistance Program recipients in the western region are:Cobar – Lillian Brady Village Hostel (operated by Cobar Shire Council) - $1,524,613Coonabarabran – Cooinda Aged Care (operated by Cooinda Coonabarabran Ltd) - $4,303,000Broken Hill – Southern Cross Care Broken Hill (operated by Southern Cross Care Qld Ltd) - $50,663,108.

Long-serving Gilgandra shire councillor Ashleigh (Ash) Walker has received a stream of well wishes following the announcement of his resignation after 13 years in the role of Deputy Mayor.Ash and his wife Libby will relocate to Mudgee next year to be closer to their children and their parents.However, the timing of Cr Walker's resignation - within 18 months of the last local government election - leaves his council in the fortunate position of being able to appoint a replacement on a countback rather than having to take residents to a by-election.A count-back uses the ballot papers from the September 2024 election to identify which unelected candidate will fill the vacancy.As it turns out, former councillor Gail Babbage is the sole candidate on the ballot draw list and she has confirmed her willingness to re-stand.Ms Babbage served on council from 2020 to 2024 and Cr Walker says she missed a seat at that election by "just a handful of votes." "We estimate it will save Gilgandra shire around $40,000 to $50,000 and it's great because Gail has an amazing skillset," Cr Walker told the Western Plains App."She's a qualified architect so she has skills in planning and project management, plus she's a local who's well respected and connected in the community."Ash Walker with mayor Doug Batten. [IMAGE: Gilgandra Shire Council]At the age of 36 Mr Walker was quickly thrust into the leadership position at his first ever council meeting within a week of the election.He has retained the position ever since. Reflecting on his time on council, Cr Walker says it has been "both an honour and a privilege." "More for than a decade I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside committed councillors, passionate community members, and a resilient local government team - all united by a shared goal of making Gilgandra stronger, more vibrant, and more sustainable.” He says he takes particular pride in being part of the team responsible for growing the council's financial resources while also delivering a suite of major infrastructure projects."We've grown our budget from $22million in 2012 to this financial year delivering an $82 million budget."This includes growing our rate base from $3.8 million to now $5.9 million as well as the attraction of outside funds."We've now replaced 11 out of 12 of our timber bridges, and some of those were major projects."We built a new depot for our outdoor works staff and we've got a new Library, a new tourism and visitor information centre."We've sealed 12 kilometres of the National Park Road and put another 6 kilometres of new seal on the Tooraweenah to Mendooran Road."The occupancy rate of our Cooee Lodge is basically 99%."Cr Walker has been part of the cohort who set clear targets - through plans like their Gilgandra Activation Blueprint andTowards 5000 - so everyone is clear on council's vision and direction.And it seems to be working."Gilgandra has had population growth at the last census, contrary to most of the other towns around us," he said."Through our Integrated Planning & Reporting we've had this really clear strategic approach."Also, having really good staff is important and continuity is important."Gilgandra Shire councillors. [IMAGE: GSC]But it's not just about the numbers."It's about improving the liveability of the community."It shores up house prices, so people have shored up equity in their homes."It's an attractive place to live, we have a low crime rate and our facilities are getting renewed."He cites the $16 to $20 million Hunter Park sporting and recreational precinct as the next big project to be delivered.But he says while he'll miss the community focus you have as an elected councillor, he won't miss the negativity."Those people who are single issue people and can't look at council as a whole operation."I really believe you only get the community you're prepared to help build."I'm looking forward to some people coming forward and asking me about my role on council, what it means, what my focus has been and have those people in the next round of people putting their hand up in 2028." Mayor Cr Doug Batten thanked Cr Walker for his dedication and expertise across thirteen years of service to Council and his contributions to the Gilgandra Region.“It has been a privilege to work alongside Ash over the past thirteen years. During this time, he has not only been a fellow councillor, but also a trusted confidant. "He has given countless hours of his time in service to our community, not only through his work around the Council table but also through his strong presence within the community.”Cr Walker’s resignation will take effect on 21 October, and the countback process must be completed within 49 days of the vacancy being declared.Cr Batten says Council will be requesting the Electoral Commission to finalise the process as soon as possible to fill the vacancy.

The Minns Government has announced the creation of the NSW Premier’s Rural Remote and Regional Advisory Council (PRRRAC), promising rural and remote communities a stronger voice in state policy.While the move has been broadly welcomed across the bush, groups in Western NSW say the council must deliver genuine outcomes, not just more talk.Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty unveiled the initiative at the 2025 Bush Summit, describing the council as a way to bring regional concerns directly to government.The PRRRAC will meet twice a year with the Premier and Minister Moriarty, and its membership will include the Country Mayors Association, Regional Cities NSW, the Country Women’s Association of NSW (CWA), Indigenous councils, Local Land Services, and representatives from health, education and business sectors.Mr Minns said the new body would ensure regional perspectives shape decision-making.“We want to work with regional communities to find solutions that really meet their needs and will make a difference,” he said.“We are committed to delivering regional communities their fair share and this group means we can ensure our responses are targeted, effective and in line with the realities of regional life."I have seen firsthand that when someone with a local knowledge of a community is willing to share their experience and perspective with us, we deliver better policies, services and outcomes.”Minister Moriarty said the council builds on previous efforts such as regional roundtables and the Regional Development Trust Advisory Council.“This additional group ensures we can bring further input into government and continue our work in ensuring solutions are meeting real local needs,” she said.“We have been building better essential services and attracting more essential workers to regional NSW and I hope this group will assist me in our work of growing regional economies.”CWA of NSW President Tanya Jolly said issues such as lack of housing and access to health services will be highlighted by the organisation to the NSW Government.The CWA of NSW has welcomed its invitation to join the panel, but cautioned that promises must translate into action.“This is certainly a step in the right direction and we welcome the chance to be part of this group to put forward the issues our members are telling us are impacting their communities and the quality of life of residents in those areas,” CWA President Tanya Jolly said.“But it needs to be more than just words – we have to see the insights this group is providing be taken forward by the NSW Government and acted on."And the issues from our perspective are very clear.”Ms Jolly said the CWA would highlight issues including the decline of health services, land use and planning regulations, a lack of affordable housing and inadequate telecommunications.“What we hear often is that so many country residents feel like they’re not being listened to by government and their concerns are being relegated to the ‘too hard’ basket,” she said.“In 2025 our regions deserve better, and the people who live there should be able to expect reasonable access to quality services, and workable infrastructure."Many groups are calling this shift from the cities a ‘long-term’ trend, but currently many rural and regional towns and cities would say they need the resources to support this growth."We are hopeful this new government advisory group will help highlight the issues being felt by the regions and provide the quality of life both existing residents, and newcomers, should expect.”For communities in the state’s west, the council offers a long-awaited opportunity to press the case on local priorities. Country Mayors Association Chair and Temora Mayor Rick Firman, who has been invited to act as Secretariat of the council, said regional leaders were “tickled pink” at the Premier’s decision.“Premier Minns was receptive of the proposal when we put this to him personally.Both our Premier and his team have now come through in spades and established this Advisory Council, specifically for Rural, Remote and Regional issues,” he said.Mr Firman added that the council should not just be symbolic.“We will share the challenges with suggested solutions, we will have government policy proposals bounced off us and give genuine feedback."We will also share the countless inspiring initiatives that occur in our cherished rural, remote and regional communities which may be replicated across our great state."Only positive things can come from this initiative.”The PRRRAC is expected to meet for the first time before the end of 2025.For Western NSW communities grappling with drought resilience, under-resourced hospitals, housing shortages and patchy digital access, the message is clear: consultation is welcome, but only meaningful action will prove that this time, the government is listening.